The logic model for Underage Drinking shows the major influences (thicker arrows) that affect the prevalence of adolescent drinking and subsequent harm. Most notably, it highlights the primary role of alcohol availability, either via retail sources (stores, bars, restaurants) or via social sources (home, friends). The first diagram shows the key influences, and the second diagram shows the interventions aimed at reducing alcohol availability to youth. Retail availability can be addressed via decoy operations (citing servers or clerks who sell alcohol to underage police decoys); server and seller training to avoid service to underage buyers; and recognition and reminder programs, which entail sending a young-looking but legal age buyer into a business. If the person is not asked for identification, the server/clerk is given a card reminding them of their obligation to see proof of legal age. If an ID is asked for, a card congratulating them for their care is given to the clerk/server, sometimes with a small gift certificate.
Social availability is more difficult to address. Social host liability ordinances, which hold the host accountable for underage drinking, are becoming more common. Their enforcement along with publicity (visibility) can reduce the prevalence of underage access to alcohol in such settings. Highly publicized “party patrols” can also draw potential hosts’ attention to their liability.
Underage Drinking Logic Model Diagram
- Minor Decoy Operations Overview
- Reward and Reminder Program Overview
- Social Host Liability / Nuisance Ordinance Overview
- Nuisance Party Patrols Overview
- Retail Serving Practices – Responsible Beverage Service Training Overview
- DUI Enforcement